MEDIA RELEASE

 
Anniversary Commemoration of Sri Lankan Talkie Cinema and the National Film Corporation – 2026
The National Film Corporation of Sri Lanka (NFC) will celebrate the anniversaries of Sri Lankan talkie cinema and the establishment of the NFC with a series of cultural and professional events in January 2026, marking nearly eight decades of cinematic heritage.

Sri Lankan cinema, which began in 1947, has now completed 79 years. Recognized as both a cultural expression and an educational medium, cinema in Sri Lanka has been nurtured under a national mandate that promotes artistic excellence, professional development, and industry sustainability. Since its establishment 54 years ago, the NFC has played a central role in regulating exhibition standards, safeguarding cinema infrastructure, supporting film professionals, and strengthening the industry.

As global cinema rapidly transitions to digital technologies, the responsibilities of the NFC have expanded, requiring innovative approaches to preservation, education, and industry development. The 2026 anniversary celebrations mark a significant milestone in this evolving cinematic journey.

Main Anniversary Ceremony

The main commemorative ceremony will be held on 21 January 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at the Tharangani Cinema Hall, NFC, under the patronage of Hon. Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, with the participation of state officials and leading figures from the Sri Lankan film industry. Attendance is by invitation only.

Anniversary Program Schedule

The anniversary will feature a series of events:

  • Anniversary Film Screening Festival
    22–25 January 2026 | Free public screenings
    Venue: Tharangani Cinema Hall, NFC
  • Masterclass on Film Marketing
    23 January 2026 | 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
    Conducted by Professor Finola Kerrigan, Marketing Professor, Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham (UK)
    Venue: Joe Abeywickrama Centre, NFC – By invitation only
  • Free Medical Clinic for Cinema Professionals
    31 January 2026 | 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
    Venue: NFC premises

During the main ceremony, the book “Cinema Nadiye Udugang Bala” (සිනමා නදියේ උඩුගං බලා) by Anura Dahanayake, a diploma graduate of the NFC, will be launched. The latest issue of the film journal “Chithrapata” will also be unveiled.

The NFC invites the public to attend the anniversary film screenings, offering an opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s rich cinematic heritage and celebrate nearly eight decades of talkie cinema.

★ Contact Information ★

For inquiries and further details, please contact:

Division: Marketing, Production & Research Division
Telephone: +94 11 259 0761